Invented in 1879 and selected by the Magazine Rifle Board in 1882 for trials, only 753 Chaffee-Reese rifles were produced. Convened in response to European technological and military developments, the Magazine Rifle Board subjected the candidate weapons to brutal and sometimes deliberately destructive testing, leaving survivors rare in any condition. Bayonet lug front sight and "C-R" marked ramp and ladder rear sight, with "V/P/eagle head" on the left side near the breech and "U.S. -- SPRINGFIELD. -- 1884." on top of the left receiver wall. The signature "double ratchet" magazine is installed in the buttstock, with the control switch on the right side of the receiver. Smooth, straight grip stock with cleaning rod, two barrel bands, sling swivels, script "P" behind the trigger guard and the "SWP/1884" final inspection mark on the left side of the butt near the heel.

Very good as refinished, with over half of the spotted blue finish remaining, showing scattered areas of brown patina and light handling marks. Stock is fine as reoiled, with sharp cartouche and mild handling marks overall. Mechanically needs adjustment.